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KEYNOTE SPEAKER
Dr. Joseph F. O’Brien is a highly decorated former FBI Special Agent, New York Times bestselling author of Boss of Bosses, and a central figure in the dismantling of the New York Mafia in the 1980s. Over the course of nearly two decades in the FBI, he led and supported major investigations involving organized crime, espionage, and foreign counterintelligence, often working alongside intelligence partners on matters tied to national security. Alongside his partner, Special Agent Andris Kurins, he led the historic wiretap investigation that helped bring down the infamous Gambino crime family, an operation that later became the foundation for their bestselling book chronicling the inner workings of that case.
O’Brien is the recipient of the U.S. Attorney General’s Distinguished Service Award, the highest honor in federal law enforcement, recognizing his extraordinary service and impact. After leaving the Bureau, he became a licensed private investigator and continues to work as a counterterrorism specialist, providing insight and support on complex international threat related matters. He also conducted an extensive independent investigation into the disappearance of former FBI agent Robert Levinson, further deepening his expertise in intelligence operations, Iran, terrorism, and government accountability. He holds a PhD in Criminal Justice, with a published dissertation focused on Islamic terrorism, bringing both academic authority and real world operational experience to every appearance.
Book Dr. Joseph F. O’Brien for Speaking Engagements
Dr. O’Brien delivers powerful, firsthand presentations drawn from a career spent on the front lines of organized crime investigations, intelligence operations, and national security. His speaking engagements are gripping, educational, and deeply relevant to audiences seeking real leadership lessons from high pressure environments.
Dr. O'Brien is available for:
Law enforcement conferences and training events, speaking on organized crime investigations, intelligence coordination, interrogation strategy, and leadership under pressure.
Universities and academic institutions, presenting on criminal justice, counterterrorism, intelligence failures, ethics, and the evolving global threat landscape, supported by both field experience and doctoral research.
Corporate leadership events and executive forums, focusing on decision making in high stakes environments, crisis leadership, trust, accountability, and navigating complex systems.
National security and policy forums, offering rare firsthand perspective on terrorism, Iran, interagency operations, and the long term implications of intelligence and government decisions.
Book talks, author events, and moderated discussions centered around Boss of Bosses and his career inside the FBI, providing audiences with an insider’s view into the takedown of organized crime and the realities of federal investigations.
Dr. O’Brien brings credibility, authority, and real world perspective that resonates across professional, academic, and leadership audiences, making him a compelling and impactful speaker for organizations seeking substance, experience, and insight.
